Dallas Cowboys: Five options for first round of 2018 NFL Draft

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 08: Da'Ron Payne #94 of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts to a play during the second quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 08: Da'Ron Payne #94 of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts to a play during the second quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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At some point in the near future, the Dallas Cowboys are going to have to replace Jason Witten. Witten is a Hall of Fame tight end who can still move the chains and block at a high level, but he’ll turn 36 years of age in May and is no longer a threat after the catch.

While some are of the belief that Dallas should acquire a wide receiver in the first round, another possibility exists: A dual tight end offense.

Witten has reliable hands and the ability to save Dak Prescott when a play falls apart, as well as impressive proficiency as a run blocker. What he isn’t, however, is a player who can stretch the field vertically and exploit matchups against linebackers and safeties.

Dallas Goedert, the best tight end in the 2018 NFL Draft, fits the bill as a big and athletic target who’s willing to fight through contact and make plays after the catch.

Standing at 6’5″ and 255 pounds, Goedert has garnered comparisons to Zach Ertz for his fluid athleticism and playmaking ability. He may not replace Dez Bryant, but he can become an offensive focal point in that he can produce high reception, yardage and touchdown totals.

For Prescott, simply having a big body who can excel at all three levels would be a massive relief—and, quite frankly, a significant upgrade over what’s at both tight end and wide receiver.